Catherine the Great: A Historical Overview

Catherine the Great ruled Russia from 1762 to 1796, becoming one of its longest-reigning leaders. Born in Prussia, she moved to Russia, married Peter von Holstein-Gothorp, and eventually became Empress after a coup. Her reign saw territorial expansion, attempts at westernization, and various reforms. Despite challenges, she left a lasting legacy upon her death in 1796.

What was Catherine the Great's birth name?

• Sophia Augusta Frederica

• Anna Ivanovna

• Maria Feodorovna

• Elizabeth Petrovna

Which kingdom was Catherine originally from?

• France

• Austria

• Prussia

• Spain

Who was Catherine the Great married to?

• Alexander I

• Nicholas II

• Ivan the Terrible

• Peter von Holstein-Gothorp

How long did Catherine have to wait to become Empress of Russia?

• 20 years

• 17 years

• 5 years

• 10 years

What was one of Catherine's major achievements during her reign?

• Discovering America

• Building the Great Wall

• Inventing the steam engine

• Expanding Russia's borders

Which area did Catherine attempt to reform during her early years as Empress?

• Medicine

• Agriculture

• Law

• Transportation

What was one of the reasons Catherine gave more power to the nobles?

• To maintain peace and prevent rebellion

• To increase taxes

• To start a war

• To build more palaces

What was Catherine's stance on freeing the serfs?

• She initially argued for it but later abandoned the idea

• She was against it from the start

• She freed all the serfs

• She never considered it

What was the outcome of Catherine's attempt to help children through the Moscow Orphanage?

• It became a model institution

• The orphanage was closed

• All children became successful

• Most children died before adulthood

Who succeeded Catherine the Great after her death?

• Nicholas I

• Alexander II

• Peter the Great

• Her son Paul